Will Brexit trigger a Scottish referendum?

Scotland has voted in favour of the UK staying in the EU by 62% to 38% - with all 32 council areas backing Remain. UK's vote to leave the EU raises the prospect of Scotland being taken out of the EU against its will. Scots have been to the polls five times in the span of just over two years and UK vote in favour of 'Brexit' could pave the way for Scotland to demand a second independence referendum.

The Scottish National Party (SNP) had stated in their May 5, 2016 election manifesto that the Scottish parliament should have the right to hold another referendum if there is clear and sustained evidence that independence has become the preferred option of a majority of the Scottish people—or if there is a significant and material change in the circumstances that prevailed in 2014, such as Scotland being taken out of the EU against our will.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the results in Scotland make clear "that the people of Scotland see their future as part of the European Union." The Scottish government's external affairs secretary, Fiona Hyslop, said all options were being looked at in order to "protect Scotland's interests" and warned there would be "consequences" if the UK made a decision against the will of the Scottish people.